Banned books... Why?

The book, A Light In The Attic by Shel Silverstein was banned! My only question is, WHY? This book was banned in the mid-80's in schools across the US. They say that the book encourages selfish and disrespectful behavior, it discusses suicide, sexuality and has suggestive illustrations. My opinion of these reasons of banning this book are that they are stupid and pathetic! Ever since I was little I have grown up on this creative, fun loving poetry book, and not once have I been influenced to the extensive thoughts of suicide, immature behavior or anything bad for that matter. I believe that it expands the minds of young kids and broadens their imagination. Seeing this book on the banned book list makes me mad and questions what thoughts are going through the minds who banned the book in the first place. I believe that even having a banned book list at all goes against the First Amendment, freedom of speech. It should be the author's decision on what they wish to publish and the readers choice whether they read it or not, no matter what the age. If a parent says that they cannot read a certain genre of book, then so be it, but that is not the school or any other person's decision for that matter. Depending on the kids maturity level also will support a parent or guardian's decision. Not only is a banned book list not fair to the reader but also to the author. What the author writes about may be very important to them, and they may wish to enlighten readers with their knowledge to everyone and everywhere. It is not one person's decision to tell them they are not allowed to express themselves through books. My conclusion to the banning of The Light In The Attic by Shel Silverstein is still a mystery to me personally, but I know one thing for sure, I will never stop a kid from wanting to read this book.

By, Megan Regan